In this post, I’ll share success tips on how to Pass Post UTME examination.
Every aspiring student aims to achieve a high score in their Post UTME, surpass the cut-off mark, and secure admission into their desired University or Polytechnic.
Whether you’re applying to study at institutions like UNN, UI, OAU, FUTA, ABU Zaria, UNIBEN, DELSU, UNIPORT, FUTO, and others, the insights provided here will prove invaluable.
For many years, I struggled to gain admission into the University. My challenge then was a low JAMB score, and even when I managed to attain a reasonable score, the Post-UTME became a stumbling block.
Undoubtedly, many students achieve impressive scores in their JAMB exams. However, some end up with low scores in their Post UTME, hindering their admission prospects despite their high JAMB scores.
The reason behind this is that many Nigerian students tend to relax after achieving a high JAMB score, assuming their admission is guaranteed with a score of 250 and above. However, securing admission is a multi-stage process, and success is only confirmed upon seeing your name on the admission list.
Here are some tips on how to excel in your Post UTME examination:
- Focus on both your JAMB and Post UTME scores. Complement your high JAMB score with an outstanding performance in the Post UTME.
- Seek advice on the target score to aim for in your Post UTME based on your JAMB score and chosen institution.
- Stay proactive and diligent in your exam preparation. Don’t underestimate the importance of the Post UTME.
- Familiarize yourself with the exam format and syllabus. Practice past questions and mock tests to boost your confidence.
- Develop effective study strategies, including time management and revision techniques.
By following these tips and staying committed to your preparation, you’ll increase your chances of success in the Post UTME and secure admission into your desired institution.
Feel free to ask any questions or seek further advice. I’m here to assist you every step of the way.
20 Tips on How to Pass Post UTME Exam
Here are some tips on how to score high and pass your Post UTME exam.
1. Understand the Post UTME Format: It’s essential to know the format of your school’s exam. Different universities and polytechnics have varying formats for their Post UTME exams. Some may conduct aptitude tests, while others might require certain documents. Knowing the specific format will help you prepare effectively.
2. Study the Post UTME Syllabus: To succeed in your Post UTME, study the syllabus provided by your school. The syllabus outlines the topics you need to cover and understand for the exam. Make sure to focus your study efforts on these areas.
3. Develop Effective Study Skills: Establishing good study habits is crucial for success. Identify the study methods that work best for you and stick to them. Set achievable study goals, organize your study schedule, and practice active learning techniques such as summarizing and testing yourself.
4. Create a Good Study Environment: Find a quiet and comfortable place to study where you can focus without distractions. Whether it’s a library, your room, or a study group, ensure your study environment supports your learning goals.
5. Practice with Post UTME Past Questions: Practicing with past questions is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify areas where you need improvement. Avoid simply memorizing answers and focus on understanding the concepts behind the questions.
6. Boost Your Confidence: Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed in the exam. Confidence can positively impact your performance, but be sure to stay humble and focused on your preparation.
7. Practice Post UTME Questions Online: Familiarize yourself with online practice platforms and take advantage of resources like mock exams to simulate the exam experience.
8. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with news and updates related to your school’s Post UTME. Knowing important dates, exam requirements, and other relevant information will help you prepare effectively.
9. Register for Your Post UTME: Ensure you complete the registration process accurately and on time. Double-check your application details to avoid any errors.
10. Know Your Exam Date and Venue: Be aware of when and where your exam will take place so you can plan accordingly and arrive on time.
11. Arrive Early: Arriving early at the exam venue will give you time to familiarize yourself with the surroundings and avoid unnecessary stress.
12. Eat Well and Stay Healthy: Take care of your physical and mental well-being by eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest.
13. Overcome Anxiety: Manage exam anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, and maintaining a positive mindset.
14. Follow Exam Rules: Adhere to all exam rules and instructions to ensure a smooth and fair testing experience.
15. Learn How to Answer Questions: Familiarize yourself with effective exam strategies, such as time management and question prioritization, to maximize your performance.
16. Check Your Exam Results: After the exam, check your results promptly to assess your performance and identify areas for improvement.
17. Calculate Your Total Score: Understand how your exam scores will be calculated by the institution and calculate your total aggregate score accordingly.
Remember, success in the Post UTME exam requires diligent preparation and a focused approach. By following these tips and staying committed to your studies, you can increase your chances of success. Good luck!
Understanding the Post UTME Format?
The initial step to scoring high and passing your Post UTME is understanding your school’s exam format.
Universities and Polytechnics employ different formats for conducting the Post UTME.
Some schools may conduct aptitude tests, while others may require specific documents.
Even among schools conducting Post UTME exams, the formats may vary.
For instance, at UNN, aspirants write their four JAMB subject combinations.
Universities like DELSU and RSU test students on qualitative and quantitative reasoning and current affairs.
Being aware of the questions you will tackle on the day of your examination is essential. Ignorance of this knowledge is not an option.
Some students only become aware of these formats a few weeks before their exams, which typically does not end well for them.
Understanding how your school of choice sets its questions is crucial. It will help you prepare to score high in your Post UTME.
Study the Post UTME Syllabus?
To pass your Post UTME, you must study the Post UTME syllabus.
The Post UTME syllabus is a subject outline containing a list of topics you must read and understand.
Within the syllabus, you will find vital areas for examination questions.
For example, the syllabus may include statements such as “Students should know this and that.”
How to Obtain the Post UTME Syllabus?
The Post UTME syllabus is the same as the JAMB syllabus. Students preparing with JAMB subject combinations use it for preparation.
For example, if you are applying for Nursing Sciences at UNN, your Post UTME subject combination is Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
All you need to do is study the JAMB syllabus on these topics for your exam.
Schools that conduct screening based on JAMB subject combinations utilize the JAMB syllabus.
The JAMB syllabus is not used by schools that conduct quantitative or qualitative tests. In such cases, you must obtain past questions to understand the exact exam format.
The best way to obtain the Post UTME syllabus is to interact with students and aspirants of your school of choice.
Students from your school of choice can inform you about what to expect in the Post UTME exam.
Also, by interacting with other aspirants, you can ensure your studies align with the school’s Post UTME syllabus.
Develop Effective Study Skills?
Developing effective study skills is necessary to pass your Post UTME. Without a solid study plan, scoring high in your examination would be challenging.
An effective study strategy involves identifying what works best for you. Determine the optimal time for you to study.
You may find that you comprehend faster at night or early in the day.
Avoid planning your study schedule based solely on your friends’ opinions. Discover what works best for you and stick to it.
Set achievable goals for your study plan. Schedule your study sessions, such as Chemistry on Mondays, Biology on Wednesdays, etc.
Planning your study routine allows you to organize yourself and monitor your progress. Each morning, you’ll wake up with a plan for what to study or achieve that day.
Here’s an important tip to apply every day as a student: Before bed, decide what you want to study the next day. It gives you a sense of purpose and motivation.
Additionally, effective study skills train you on how to study and comprehend. It’s crucial that as you read, you gain a thorough understanding of the topics.
There are certain practices to adopt or avoid when studying for your examination.
How to Develop Effective Study Skills?
- Read every page of your textbook with comprehension.
- Practice recalling what you’ve read at the end of your study session.
- Test yourself with questions after each study session.
- Utilize YouTube and Google to understand complex topics.
- Engage in discussions with other aspirants about topics in the syllabus.
- Avoid checking WhatsApp or Facebook during study hours.
- Take short breaks every 30-60 minutes.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water.
- Refrain from social interactions during study hours.
- Eat well before studying; avoid studying on an empty stomach.
- Exercise daily to enhance brain function.
Create a Conducive Study Environment?
Creating a conducive study environment is essential for achieving your study goals. A poor study environment can hinder your preparation for Post UTME exams.
A serene study environment acts as a morale booster to help you accomplish your study objectives.
Here’s an example of a serene study environment:
- Private or public library
- Quiet area in your house
- University or Polytechnic campus
- Classrooms in primary and secondary schools
The above places exemplify peaceful study environments.
Students residing in a campus environment can find peaceful places to study.
Alternatively, on weekends, you can visit public secondary schools to study. Better yet, you can designate a study space in your house free from distractions.
Regardless of where you choose to study outside your home or compound, ensure the environment is safe and secure.
A piece of advice is to avoid bringing your browsing phone to the library or any study location. Leave your smartphone at home to prevent distractions from social media.
Instead, carry a basic phone to receive important calls.
Overcoming Social Media Addiction for the duration of your study sessions can significantly benefit your performance in Post UTME and first-year exams.
Practice Post UTME Past Questions?
As you prepare for your Post UTME, it’s crucial to test your capabilities using past questions. A productive study strategy involves practicing with past years’ exam questions.
Obtain a copy of the Post UTME past questions specific to your school of choice. For instance, if you applied to study Law at OAU, obtain the past questions for OAU Law aspirants.
Studying past questions will familiarize you with the exam format and help you understand it better. It provides insight into how to enhance your study technique.
Avoid the mistake of merely memorizing answers from past questions. Instead, focus on understanding how to solve problems. Merely cramming answers may lead to confusion during the exam, as you may encounter variations of the same question.
This is why some aspirants lament that UNIBEN or AAU did not award them the scores they anticipated.
It’s crucial to invest time in practicing and solving problems from past questions. This approach will prepare you to answer questions in any similar format.
How to Obtain Post UTME Past Questions?
You can obtain Post UTME past questions from your school of choice. Inquire about how to acquire the past questions booklet. Also, check if your school offers a Post UTME question app on the Play Store.
School authorities do not compile past questions and answers. Individuals compile questions from previous years. Therefore, it’s essential to inquire about a reliable question booklet for your school of choice.
If you do not live close to the University or Polytechnic campus, seek information online regarding past questions. This underscores the importance of interacting with fellow aspirants on platforms like Nairaland or Myschool.
There’s always an aspirant who possesses vital information about the school.
Stay vigilant to avoid falling into the hands of fraudsters.
Boost Your Confidence for the Post UTME Exam?
Optimizing your confidence level is crucial to passing your Post UTME exam with flying colors.
Believe in yourself so you can score high and secure admission. Do not underestimate your abilities; every student is capable of excelling in an examination. If you’re not performing as well as expected, it may be
because you haven’t identified your strengths, weaknesses, or the study methods that work best for you.
Cultivate a positive mindset, affirming that you will not fail this year’s exam. Positive thinking generates positive energy, motivating you to study harder and surpass the cut-off mark.
However, it’s essential to maintain humility. Avoid letting your success in JAMB inflate your ego.
I once encountered a Pharmacy aspirant on the eve of my Post UTME exam at UNN who boasted about his expected high score. However, he failed to secure admission.
Remember, admission is based on more than just your JAMB score or WAEC grade. It’s one thing to score high in JAMB and another to see your name on the admission list.
As you prepare for your exams, bolster your confidence while remaining humble. Let your admission letter speak for you, rather than flaunting your study habits to friends.
Practice Post UTME Questions Online?
Practicing Post UTME questions online is essential for familiarizing yourself with the exam. With the majority of schools now adopting computer-based (CBT) testing, it’s crucial to learn how to answer CBT questions.
Even without a laptop, you can download Post UTME apps for free from the Google Play Store.
For online aptitude practice tests, I recommend platforms like Myschool. They offer comprehensive resources and practice tests for aspirants. I personally utilized Myschool to prepare for my JAMB and Post UTME exams.
Myschool provides a forum for students to interact with one another. If you encounter a question with a seemingly incorrect answer, you can engage in discussions to clarify doubts. This interactive approach enhances your capacity for success.
Stay Informed About Post UTME News?
Staying current with news about your school of choice is crucial for success in your Post UTME.
Gathering information is as important as studying. By staying updated, you’ll know when the Post UTME form is available and be aware of the nature of the exam questions.
As an aspirant, dedicate time to gather as much information as possible. Utilize search engines like Google to learn about your institution of choice.
Additionally, join Facebook groups tailored for aspirants and students of your desired school. These groups provide valuable insights and updates.
For example, UNN aspirants can join like WAECAFRICA or STUDENTSDASH.
By joining relevant Facebook groups, you’ll gain access to vital information and support from fellow aspirants.
Register for Your Post UTME?
Passing or scoring high in Post UTME requires registration. Stay informed about your school of choice to ensure timely registration.
Many aspirants make mistakes during registration due to incorrect information inputted by the computer operator handling their application.
Opt for a trusted computer center for registration. Before submitting your form on the school portal, double-check all details.
If you encounter any issues with your application, visit or contact the University ICT department for assistance.
Additionally, ensure you meet the screening application deadline to avoid last-minute rushes.
Know Your Exam Date and Venue?
Knowing your exam date and venue is essential for your examination success.
After completing screening registration, schools will notify students of the aptitude test. If your school does not conduct a Post JAMB exam, there’s no need to worry.
Check the official school website or social media platforms for vital information.
Be sure to know when to print your Post UTME slip, as it contains crucial details such as the exam date, time, and venue.
Arrive Early at Your Exam Venue?
Arriving early at the exam center is crucial. It allows you to familiarize yourself with the environment and remain calm and composed.
Avoid last-minute preparations, as arriving late can negatively impact your performance.
If you live near the school, consider arriving a day before the exam. In some cases, aspirants travel several days in advance, especially those residing far from the exam venue.
Ensure you Eat Well and Stay Healthy?
Maintaining good physical and mental health is vital. Take care of your body and engage in regular exercise.
You might be surprised to learn that exercise enhances memory retention. Physical activity boosts brain function.
Consume a balanced diet and avoid junk food like snacks and soft drinks. Opt for vegetables and protein-rich foods instead.
Incorporate plenty of fruits into your diet to enhance bodily functions.
Overcome Post UTME Anxiety and Remain Calm?
Anxiety can adversely affect your exam performance if left unchecked. Feelings of tension can lead to disorganization and self-doubt.
You might begin to question your abilities, potentially choosing the wrong options during the exam.
Remember, the race to gain admission is personal. Avoid wishing for failure due to statistics or competition among students. Focus on performing well and surpassing the cut-off mark.
On the day of the exam, strive to remain calm. Practice controlled breathing and affirm your success.
Adhere to the Rules and Regulations of the Post UTME Exam?
Adhering to the rules and regulations of the Post UTME exam is crucial for success.
Many students fail Post JAMB due to a failure to follow simple instructions.
Listen attentively to all instructions provided before the start of the exam.
Ensure strict adherence to each rule and regulation; avoid attempting to circumvent them.
Learn how to Answer Post UTME Questions?
Mastering how to answer Post UTME questions is essential for scoring high. Familiarize yourself with past questions to avoid common exam mistakes.
Avoid spending too much time on any single question. If a question proves difficult, skip it to save time.
Post UTME exams are time-based, meaning you have limited time to answer questions.
After answering all questions, take the time to review your responses. Avoid rushing to submit your exam; there’s no reward for finishing first.
Check Your Post UTME Result?
Post UTME results are typically released within 24 hours of the exam. Don’t hesitate to check your screening result.
Knowing your Post UTME score will help you assess your chances of admission.
By adhering to the practical study strategies outlined above, you’ll likely achieve a high score. I sincerely hope your efforts translate into success.
Calculate Your Total Score?
Calculate your total score by combining your JAMB and Post UTME scores.
Different schools utilize various formulas for calculating the total admission score.
Some schools sum the JAMB and screening scores and then divide them by two.
If you’re unsure how to calculate the total aggregate score for your school, feel free to ask in the comments section.
Most schools do not permit the use of a calculator during the Post UTME exam.
Practice solving problems without relying on a calculator.
Understanding the Post UTME Exam?
The Post UTME exam is a screening examination organized by tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
It’s a method used to select qualified students for admission.
Difference Between JAMB and Post UTME Exam?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a national examination body in Nigeria responsible for regulating admission processes in various tertiary institutions.
Students must pass the JAMB exam for consideration for admission.
The Post UTME examination, on the other hand, is a screening test organized by tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Universities and Polytechnics test students with exams to determine those suitable for admission.
Both JAMB and Post UTME scores influence a student’s admission eligibility.
Difference Between Screening and Post UTME?
There is no difference between screening and the Post UTME examination. However, in some institutions, screening involves an online application without an aptitude test.
It’s important to note that every school in Nigeria
organizes Post UTME screening/registration.
However, some Universities or polytechnics do not conduct Post UTME examinations. Be mindful of this difference.
What to Read for Post UTME?
Prepare for your Post UTME examination using the JAMB syllabus and relevant textbooks.
Focus on the subject areas specified for your school of choice. Additionally, practice past questions to identify and address any weak points.
Recommended Books for Post UTME?
English: A-Z English Textbook by Dele Ashade
Chemistry: Lamlad’s SSCE & UTME Chemistry by F. O. Ayinde and F. O. Asubiojo
Physics: Lamlad’s SSCE & UTME Physics by O. Ajaja and H.B. Olaniyi
Biology: Explicit Biology by O.J. Olaoye
Mathematics: Integrated Mathematics Textbook Afolabi J.R.
Government: Comprehensive Government for Senior Secondary Schools
Literature: Exam Focus Literature-in-English
CRS: Study the Bible with the JAMB syllabus
Economics: Essential Economics for Senior Secondary Schools
Past Questions: School Post UTME Past Questions and Answers
Post UTME Syllabus?
The Post UTME syllabus is similar to the JAMB syllabus.
Study using the JAMB syllabus for conventional subjects like Mathematics, Economics, Biology, etc.
Ensure you understand the exam format for your first and second schools of choice.
How Many Subjects Are Written in Post UTME?
You will write four subjects in your Post UTME examination. However, the nature of the exam varies among tertiary institutions. Some schools test on current affairs, qualitative and quantitative reasoning, etc.
How Many Questions Are There in Post UTME?
Post UTME questions typically range from 50 to 100, depending on your school of choice. For instance, UNN Post UTME questions consist of 60 questions, while the University of Ibadan’s exam includes 100 questions.
The format for Post UTME exams can vary, with institutions sometimes changing their approach.
How to Check My Post UTME Exam Date?
You can check your Post UTME exam date by visiting the school’s official website portal.
For example, if you applied for Law at the University of Calabar, visit the UNICAL website to know your exam date.
Best Post UTME CBT Practice App?
Here are some of the best Post UTME CBT practice apps available on the Google Play Store:
Studentsdash (JAMB + WAEC + POST UTME) by Studentsdash.com
JAMB CBT + WAEC Past Questions by Myschool
My UNN Post UTME App by Allschool
UNIBEN Post UTME App
All JAMB Post UTME Questions & Answers
Jamb and Post UTME Questions
All Universities Post-U.T.M.E offline
UI Post-UTME OFFLINE App
LAUTECH Post UTME
OAU Post UTME Questions Offline
UNILORIN Post UTME App
UNIPORT Post UTME Past Quetions
PASS.NG (JAMB UTME 2020, Post-JAMB, WAEC, NECO)
G-Best DELSU Post UTME Offline
UNIZIK Post UTME-Past Questions & Answers (Offline)
FUTO Post UTME Past Questions- Offline (Study App)
Best 5 Federal Universities in Nigeria?
According to the Times Higher Education, the best 5 Federal universities in Nigeria are:
University of Ibadan (UI)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Note that these rankings may fluctuate annually, influenced primarily by accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Best State University in Nigeria?
Here are some of the best state universities in Nigeria:
Lagos State University (LASU)
Rivers State University (RSU)
Delta State University (DELSU)
Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma (AAU)
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
How Many Universities in Nigeria?
According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), there are 171 universities in Nigeria:
44 Federal Universities
48 State Universities
79 Private Universities
UNIBEN Post UTME Format?
The UNIBEN Post UTME format consists of 50 questions to be answered within one hour. Applicants for Medicine and Surgery write five subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Use of English, Chemistry, and Physics.
You’ll answer twenty (20) questions in English, fifteen (15) in Biology, and fifteen (15) for the other subjects.
How Many Subjects Are Written in UI Post UTME?
At the University of Ibadan, you’ll write four subjects in the Post UTME examination. The subject combination mirrors that of JAMB. For example, if your JAMB subject combination is Use of English, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology, you’ll take the same subjects in the UI Post UTME.
Can I Write Post UTME in Two Schools?
Yes, you can write the Post UTME in two schools, including your first and second choice of institution.
In some cases, aspirants write the Post UTME in their first-choice school, then register for a JAMB change of institution to write the screening exam in another school as a first-choice candidate.
Ensure you comply with JAMB guidelines to avoid any violations.
Difference Between Polytechnic and University in Nigeria?
Polytechnics and universities in Nigeria are distinct academic awarding institutions. Polytechnics award the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates.
Universities in Nigeria confer Diplomas, BSc, MSc, and PhD certificates.
Universities typically offer programs in postgraduate studies, making them the apex of certificate-awarding institutions.
Difference Between HND and BSc?
Polytechnics in Nigeria award HND certificates upon completion of a four-year academic program. After two school sessions, Polytechnic students earn an ND result, followed by a one-year industrial training program.
After an additional two academic sessions, ND holders receive an HND certificate. HND holders can participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
I’m here if you have any questions or need further clarification!
